It gives me great pleasure to present to you the education and training allocation in this year's State Budget.

Expenditure on the education portfolio in this year’s Budget will increase by more than $71 million. The total expenditure in education and training in 2005-06 is $943 million.

Education is a top priority for the Lennon Government. This Budget demonstrates that the Government is committed to expanding quality education and training opportunities for all Tasmanians.

The theme for this year's State Budget is Our State Our Lifestyle. We are committed to building a better future for all Tasmanians and their families.

Please read the enclosed information which highlights many of our initiatives. If you would like more information on the Budget please don’t hesitate to make contact with my office on telephone 6233 8309.

I am confident that this year's Budget will enable us to build on our achievements as we continue towards achieving our long-term goal of a world-class state education, training and information system.

Yours sincerely,

Paula Wriedt, MHA
Minister for Education